Ossining Business Spotlight: Teaching Music

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. The plan behind this series at Patch is to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

This is as much about supporting local businesses as it is about celebrating the places and faces that make our community special. Click here to get to a simple form where local business owners can answer a few quick questions to be part of this ongoing feature.

Our spotlight today is on Rachel Alexander.

Business: Rachel Alexander Private String Studio

Owner: Rachel Alexander

Website: www.ViolinRLA.org

Address: Ossining, NY

How did you come up with the name?

I needed to come up with a name on the spot, so I just used my own name.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?

I currently teach out of my home studio located in the Ossining community. It is my hope and dream to share my love of music with the Ossining and surrounding communities.

Briefly, what business are you in?

Private violin and/or viola lessons are held in my home studio in Ossining, NY. This is a perfect location for those living in the Ossining, Briarcliff Manor, Croton on Hudson and the surrounding communities. Each lesson is to be made by appointment only and is available for 30 min., 45 min., or 60 min. sessions. Trial lessons (30 minutes) are also available by appointment. All lessons will be customized to the student’s individual needs and abilities. Lessons may include technique building exercises including scales, rhythmic exercises, etudes, shifting and music from the standard repertoire (see list below for lesson materials used). Small chamber ensembles (duets, trios, etc.) maybe formed throughout the semester. I also offer audition preparation for music festivals including NYSSMA, All-County and All-State. Recitals and performance opportunities will also be made available throughout the year.

Were there any challenges that made you second-guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?

My business is very new; therefore, the biggest challenge that I’ve faced is simply getting my name out and into the community. I would love to have parents, fellow musicians, school teachers and students know that I am here to help in anyway I can, both musically and otherwise.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

My favorite moment by far has been my first student recital. It was amazing to have all of my students come together to make music, to share with one another what they’ve been doing and to also bond as fellow musicians.

How do you deal with difficult customers?

I, luckily, do not have to deal with difficult customers very often. As part of my studio, each student/parent receives a String Studio Handbook. Within that handbook are my policies and other important information. I have all of the parents sign that handbook and a registration form to be brought in on the first official private lesson. I find that having all of my cards out on the table before lessons begin to be very helpful and to prevent any future conflicts.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

As a business owner and the sole employee, I find that it is very important to be an active member of my community. I perform at the local farmers market and nursing home. I give workshops for local students including a workshop with a local Daisy troop, children’s center as well as hosting a free NYSSMA Workshop for violin and viola students at the Ossining Public Library. Anything I can do to help violin and viola students, as well as my community at large would be my pleasure!